Sorry, it’s been so long since the last Child Safety post.  We have been very busy here at Findlay Chevrolet – lots of events.   So, here is the final installment on car seats.

This post is going to focus on Booster Seats and correctly adjusted Seat Belts. 

Booster seats are for the older child who has passed the age/height limits of the car seat but can’t fit the shoulder and lap harness as needed, usually when the child reaches 4’9” in height and around 8 years old.  A booster seat is designed so the child is lifted and the seat belts will fit correctly as if they were adults.  The booster seat is not usually attached using the LATCH system rather using the child’s weight and the seat belts to hold your precious cargo in position. 

The lap and shoulder belts should fit your child snugly – with the lap belts lying low and snug and the shoulder belt lying across your child’s chest.  Make sure it doesn’t lie across the neck.  Backless booster seats are less expensive and easier to move from vehicle to vehicle making them a good choice.  The booster seats with backs should be used if your vehicle doesn’t have head rests.

When your child hits the 4’9” height requirement they will most likely fit perfectly in the adult seat belts. Make sure that the shoulder belt lies across the chest and should – not touching the neck or throat. The lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs.  If not, back to the booster seat for a little extra growing time.

Children should stay in the back seat until they are 12 or 13 years old – just for extra safety.  After that they can move up front with you.  Be sure to read about the airbags in your owner’s manual at that time.

If you need help with the installation, to double check that you have installed it correctly or to check recalls you can find someone qualified  at your local fire department or police department.  You can find a CPS Certified technician by checking out:

            NHTSA 888.327.4236

            SeatCheck 866.732.8213

            National Child Passenger Safety Certified Technician 877.366.8154

Additionally, here in Las Vegas Sunrise Hospital, St. Rose Dominican Hospital and Summerlin Hospital can assist.

Remember, 71% of all car seats are not installed correctly. All it takes is 15 minutes to ensure the safety of your child.

If you have any questions or suggestions – please let me know.